A report on the 2012 Venezuelan presidential election issued today by The Carter Center notes increased citizen confidence in the voter system compared to past contests.

The report further noted both the Capriles and the Chavez campaigns' mutual acceptance of the vote as the will of the electorate, while also pointing out concerns about the unequal campaign conditions created by an incumbent president running for re-election.

Changing political dynamics have created opportunity for dialogue and consultation between the re-elected government and an opposition that quickly recognized the president's victory on various issues facing the country.

"We were especially impressed by young voters we spoke with on both sides who expressed a willingness to accept the victory of either candidate and to live and work together," said Jennifer McCoy, director of the Carter Center's Americas Program. "We sensed a strong desire among many Venezuelans for their political leaders to work together to solve daily problems."

The report was compiled based on interviews with political and electoral analysts, political actors, and technical experts on the ground in Venezuela in the months prior to the election and on election day. Conducting the study mission were: Fernando Tuesta, former election chief in Peru; Jaime Aparicio, former Bolivian ambassador to the United States; Carlos Safadi, Argentine constitutional law professor and subsecretary of the Buenos Aires Supreme Court in charge of electoral affairs; Hector Diaz Santana, Mexican law professor and electoral law expert; and Jennifer McCoy. Read the full report (PDF) >

A nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in more than 80 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy and human rights; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care. The Carter Center is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization (Tax ID# 58-1454716).